Scared cat peeping out from under a blanket

Pet Owners Told To ‘prepare Now’ As Vets Warn Of Seasonal Stress Trigger

5 days ago
139 views

Posted
7th September, 2026 15h59

Author
Ceva

Desensitisation methods ahead of Bonfire Night can take up to 8 weeks to build on

Bonfire Night can be a stressful time for our beloved pets, with 30% of cats and 50% of dogs being scared of fireworks.

The sudden and loud bangs, bright lights and vibrations of displays can cause significant stress and anxiety in both dogs and cats, but proper preparation can reduce your pets’ stress levels and help them to feel more secure during these unsettling events. 

Some preparation methods can take up to 8 weeks, so vets are urging owners to begin now, in time for November.

Jimmy Bratley, Veterinary Advisor for both Feliway and Adaptil, Ceva Animal Health brands, has shared advice on how owners can prepare their pets for fireworks, alongside tips for how to prepare your pet on the day.

Preparations: 8 weeks ahead of Bonfire Night

1. Desensitisation
   
   “Desensitisation is the process of trying to lower how sensitive they are to firework noises, and involves playing these noises at a low enough level so that they will not react or panic. Once they are ok at the lowest volume, you then increase by a small level each time. If they panic at any point, it is important to take a step back to the lower level until they are happy again. This process needs to be done gradually over 8 weeks.”
    
2. Counterconditioning
   
   “Once desensitisation is complete, you can start counterconditioning. This is where you help your dog to make a positive association with the noises they are hearing, by rewarding alongside playing the noises. Make sure to use high-value rewards that your pet really likes.”

How to help pets scared of fireworks on Bonfire Night

While both cats and dogs can be sensitive to fireworks, the way they present anxiety can differ. Below, Jimmy highlights steps pet owners can take this year when the time comes:

• Exercise pets that require it 3-4 hours before the fireworks are due to start to allow enough time to get them settled back inside before things start to get noisy.
• Ensure that your pets are closed indoors an hour or 2 before the fireworks are due to begin and check all the doors and windows are secure to prevent any accidental escapes. And make sure that your pets' microchip details are up-to-date.
• Keep the noise to a minimum by closing windows, doors and cat flaps.
• Mask the noise with the TV or radio.
• Provide cosy hiding places with blankets. Do not coax them out - it will cause more stress.
• Make sure they have enough food, water and, for cats, a clean litter tray.
• Create a haven with blankets, bedding and their favourite toys.
• Prevent escapes by keeping your dog indoors in a secure area.

Jimmy Bratley, Veterinary Advisor for Feliway and Adaptil, highlights the key signs of anxiety to watch for in pets: 

“While cats are naturally much harder to read than dogs, there are subtle signs to look for. When looking at the cat's facial expression, check whether their pupils are large or dilated, or if the cat’s ears are turned out to the side or back. Tense cats will dart their ears around listening to the various sounds around them. 

If these signs are present when a cat licks their nose, swallows (when not eating) or yawns, then this could indicate that the cat is feeling stressed. When feeling fearful, cats are more likely to crouch so they are ready to run rather than lying down.

The most common response to fireworks in fearful or anxious cats is to run away, hide or climb to a safe lookout.”

“Your dog will try to tell you that they are nervous or afraid with their body language. Signs you should look out for include excessive barking, shaking, hiding, excessive panting and drooling. Dogs may also dart their ears back when feeling anxious. If your dog is seeking comfort from you, be sure to provide that in a quiet, calm way. Ignoring them won’t help things and may make them wonder why you’re suddenly not paying attention to them, making their anxiety worse.

Knowing your dog’s triggers and the signs of fear and anxiety are important for good pet ownership.”

More from Ceva

• BLUEVAC-3 bluetongue (BTV-3) vaccine available
• Why is my cat meowing so much? Feline behaviourist explains why cats become more vocal during spring
• Ceva hosts feline hypertension bitesize video series
• Vets and VNs urged to take blood pressure in cats
• Tick Season is starting: Simple Steps to Help Protect Pets This Spring